While Valdosta is primarily a running team, it would love to have the success throwing the ball that Bainbridge had last week against Colquitt. Bainbridge quarterback James Hudson went 17-for-24 for 209 yards, with three touchdown passes.

This will be the region opener for both schools, and Tomberlin says this is an important game.

“It’s our first region game, and it’s one that really counts,” he said. “The others were important, but we played them out of pride. This one has playoff implications. This is one where we need to win.

“It’s probably more important to win this one than any other game. The winner of this game is kind of in the driver’s seat, while the loser is a little behind the eight-ball.”